A look into Camarillo's future

With the year just ending, here's our formula for a better 2009. Not really resolutions, but mainly wishful thinking.

To the Oxnard Union High School District: The time is now to move forward with building Camarillo's new high school. Unlike many public school construction projects, the funding for the new high school has long been available through Measure H, the $135million bond passed in 2004. The Oxnard Union board of trustees can no longer use the threat of unification as an excuse not to build the new campus.

To the Pleasant Valley School District: By no means was 2008 an easy year for the district, its schools or its board of trustees. As statewide budget cuts loom, it doesn't appear 2009 will be much easier as more schools will likely face closures and programs cuts will be inevitable. That being said, it's best to give residents the facts about the district—for better or for worse—in a straightforward and transparent manner. As time has shown, moving forward with a major decision that affects the district without full disclosure to teachers and residents only leads to more frustration and distrust.

To the Camarillo City Council: May 2009 be the year the Camarillo Old Town fire station finally gets its remodel. Old Town looks great except for the boarded up building just a stone's throw from the city's most recognizable landmark.

To the administration at Cal State University Channel Islands: Congratulations on building one of the premier libraries of Southern California right in our own backyard. A real hidden gem, the John Spoor Broome Library should be a destination point for residents.

To the Pleasant Valley Recreation and Park District: Here's to a smooth and uneventful completion of the $11.2-million sports park now underway at the Village at the Park. There are many local families looking forward to the 55-acre park and its opening this spring.

To the Camarillo Police Department: Let's hope for a year—even one week—without having to deal with criminals breaking into other people's homes and cars.

To Camarillo residents: Let's hope locking the car at night and keeping the house secure during the day helps keep the bad guys away.

To Camarillo Acorn shoppers: Money is tight all over, which is why it's best to spend it locally. Keep those tax dollars right here.

To New Year's Eve partygoers: May your travels to and from whatever wonderful bash you have planned be safe and sober.

Because of the high cost of energy, that light at the end of the tunnel just went dark, but to all of our Camarillo Acorn readers, we still say, have a happy and prosperous New Year.